The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has formally inducted Twelve new members, including the Publisher of Ejes Gist Media Limited and founder of ejesgist.com, Mr. Omajemite Don. The induction ceremony was held at the Ministry of Information conference hall, State Secretariat, Asaba, where forum leaders restated the need for professionalism and accountability in digital journalism across Delta State.
The newly inducted members were received by senior executives and the Forum’s Board of Trustees, who underscored the importance of credible reporting in maintaining public trust in the online media ecosystem.
Ejes Gist News reports that DOPF leadership used the ceremony to outline clear expectations on ethical conduct, verification standards, and responsible use of digital platforms.
The event began with a formal roll call of publishers who successfully completed the Forum’s screening and verification process. DOPF operates a rigorous admission procedure that requires applicants to demonstrate a record of ethical reporting, transparent ownership, and compliance with national media regulations. After confirmation, inductees took the Forum’s oath of membership, which emphasizes accuracy, fairness, responsible digital publishing, transparency, and adherence to the Nigerian Code of Ethics for Journalists.
Chairman’s Charge to New Members
The Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Mr. Emmanuel Ebebeli, delivered the main charge to the inductees. He cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms and stressed that online publishers bear significant responsibility because of their influence on public opinion.
Mr. Ebebeli noted that no member should publish unverified information or use their platform to malign individuals, institutions, or businesses. He emphasized that the credibility of digital journalism depends on thorough verification, reliance on evidence, and avoidance of speculative reporting.
He highlighted four key points:
- Publishers must verify every claim before publication.
- Members should not use their platforms for political, personal, or commercial blackmail.
- Ethical lapses weaken the media industry and expose publishers to reputational and legal risks.
- The Forum will sanction unethical conduct to protect its integrity.
His remarks reflected DOPF’s continued effort to strengthen the standards of online journalism in Delta State and beyond.
Board of Trustees Reiterates Ethical Standards
Members of the DOPF Board of Trustees (BoT) were also present and contributed to the orientation session. The BoT Chairman, Chief Omafume Amurun, congratulated the inductees but urged them to uphold the values that define the Forum.
He emphasized that online journalism must be practiced with maturity and civic responsibility. He added that publishers are expected to maintain transparent editorial policies, and warned that the Forum will address any misconduct through its internal disciplinary processes.
The BoT Secretary, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, reinforced the message. He reminded inductees that journalism must prioritize accuracy and the public interest at all times. According to him, credible digital publishing is sustained through consisTwelve t adherence to ethical principles and transparent reporting practices.
Profiles of Newly Inducted Members
A key highlight of the event was the admission of Twelve new publishers into the Forum. Among them was Mr. Omajemite Don, a recognized digital media entrepreneur, conTwelve t strategist, and CEO of Ejes Gist Media Limited. Through ejesgist.com, he has contributed to political reporting, public-interest journalism, investigative stories, and data-informed news coverage.
Role of DOPF in Delta State’s Media Landscape
The Delta Online Publishers Forum is regarded as one of the most organized bodies for digital media professionals in Delta State. As online news consumption continues to expand across Nigeria, DOPF plays a central role in promoting high standards in digital journalism.
Its core functions include:
- Enhancing professionalism among online publishers
- Promoting ethical reporting and verification practices
- Engaging government institutions to strengthen public communication
- Facilitating capacity-building and continuous training
- Providing guidance on media regulation and compliance
These efforts ensure that audiences receive accurate, balanced, and responsible information through digital platforms, especially in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly.
DOPF leaders also noted that the Forum will continue to strengthen its admission procedures, ethical guidelines, and disciplinary framework. According to the leadership, these measures help maintain consisTwelve t standards among members and reinforce DOPF’s position as a credible voice in digital media regulation and development.
